2009 Lexus GX 470 Review
2009 Lexus GX 470 Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Capable off-road performer, top-notch interior with plenty of luxury features.
Cons
- Limited third-row space, inconvenient side-swinging cargo door.
What’s new
The 2009 Lexus GX 470 remains unchanged from the previous year.
Edmunds says
Despite its aging design, the 2009 Lexus GX 470 remains a worthy pick for those seeking an SUV with the versatility to handle both off-road trails and city pavement.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD (4.7L 8cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $5.02 per gallon for premium unleaded in Nevada.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Nevada
$397/mo for GX 470 Base
GX 470 Base
vs
$230/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Vehicle overview
Anyone in the market for an SUV that's adept at handling both city driving and off-road duties can certainly understand the Goldilocks syndrome. It seems that the ride is either too soft or too firm, the size is too big or too small, the interior is too utilitarian or too plush -- you get the idea.
But there is one possible "just right" option -- the 2009 Lexus GX 470. This SUV is based on the platform shared by two off-road masters -- Toyota's 4Runner and FJ Cruiser. As such, the GX 470 exhibits remarkable prowess when experienced off pavement. Factor in the innovative features and luxury that Lexus is known for, and occupants can be assured of a polished and smart cabin. Plus, being a midsize SUV, maneuvering the GX won't feel like piloting the Titanic when it comes time for navigating tight parking lots.
The 2009 Lexus GX 470 isn't exactly a new design -- it debuted for the 2003 model year and hasn't changed much since. Its closest competitor is the newer Land Rover LR3, a vehicle that can't match the Lexus' reputation for superior reliability.
Most traditional SUV owners rarely, if ever, take to off-road trails; if you're a member of this very large club, a car-based crossover SUV is going to be a more appealing choice. Consider alternatives such as the Acura MDX, BMW X5 and Mercedes M-Class, which offer more interior versatility and better road-going manners. But if you're looking for a choice that's versatile enough to please a modern-day urban Goldilocks, or even a backwoods family of bears, the GX 470 will no doubt satisfy.
Performance & mpg
The 2009 Lexus GX 470 is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 producing 263 horsepower and 323 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is the only available gearbox, and it routes power to all four wheels via a dual-range transfer case. Towing capacity is 6,500 pounds when properly equipped. EPA fuel ratings come in at 14 mpg city/18 mpg highway and 15 mpg in combined driving.
Safety
As you'd expect from Lexus, the 2009 Lexus GX 470 is well stocked with safety equipment that includes antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags and roll-sensing side curtain airbags for the first and second rows. Also standard are traction control, stability control, downhill assist control and hill-start assist control. The Lexus Link communications system is an optional add-on. Another is a rearview camera, which is included with the navigation system.
Driving
Because the 2009 Lexus GX 470 soldiers on as a body-on-frame SUV, it has a more trucklike feel than some of the newer car-based crossovers. Despite this, the GX manages to impress with a refined, smooth ride and sure-footed handling. The standard adaptive variable suspension and rear adjustable height control further enhance versatility and convenience by allowing the driver to select a stiffer or softer suspension tuning for various conditions. These features also adjust the rear height by 1.2 inches for added off-road ground clearance or easier cargo loading.
Interior
The interior of the 2009 GX 470 is typical Lexus, which is to say, outstanding. Occupants are enveloped in supple leather and rich wood trim. Materials quality is first-rate, most surfaces are soft-touch and all components are assembled with Swiss-timepiece precision. The GX 470's lengthy features list translates into a somewhat busy-looking control panel, but these controls are easy to use, thanks to intuitive placement. Gauges are easily read, as is the optional navigation system. This system comes with a high-resolution display, voice activation, iPod integration and phone book synchronization via Bluetooth.
With a maximum cargo space of 78 cubic feet, storage is about average for SUVs of this size. The 60/40-split second-row seats fold down but not flat, and the optional third-row seats fold up and to the sides. Although having the option of third-row seating is advantageous, comfort is sacrificed, as the space is fairly cramped.
Rather than opt for a typical fold-down tailgate, Lexus inexplicably employed a side-hinged rear door. This configuration makes cargo loading difficult (especially when parallel-parked). The situation is worsened by the fact that the door is hinged on the passenger side, blocking curbside access when opened.
2009 Lexus GX 470 models
The 2009 Lexus GX 470 is a midsize luxury SUV offered in one very well-appointed trim level. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, an adaptive variable suspension, heated outside mirrors, lighted running boards, leather seats, heated power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a sunroof and a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel. There's also an 11-speaker sound system with a six-CD changer and an auxiliary audio jack.
The GX 470's main option is a navigation system paired with a premium 14-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system and Bluetooth. Also offered is a GX 470-specific Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) that adjusts for more off-road suspension travel or less body roll in regular conditions. Other optional equipment items include a rear-seat entertainment system, satellite radio and a 50/50-split third-row seat with rear air-conditioning. A sport package enhances the interior and exterior with various trim pieces and includes KDSS.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Above Average
#21 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Lexus GX 470 from 2008-2022.$452/yr
vs. $602/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).2.28x/yr
vs. 1.09x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).14%
vs. 9.4%
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 Lexus GX 470.
5 star(79%)
4 star(10%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(0%)
29 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Unsurpassed Quaility and Off Road Capabilities
LC Prado, 08/30/2016
2008 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD (4.7L 8cyl 5A)
I traded up from a FJ Cruiser to this. In short, it's an amazingly comfortable SUV that excels at off road performance. Based on the Land Cruiser Prado sold pretty much everywhere else in the world except the US (think sand dunes and the bush), this truck is NOT a pimped out 4Runner. The full time 4WD, V8, rear air suspension, build quality, comfort and reliability combined make this rig … unsurpassed for those who venture beyond the mall. These trucks are often referred to as out of date dinosaurs, and are compared to their unibody competitors who may outperform in terms of drivability and road manners; but this truck is built for towing, adverse driving conditions, and off-road capabilities while maintaining superior daily driver comfort for the whole family. If that’s not what you need, then look elsewhere. If it is, then look no further, spend a little extra up front, and drive it for another 200k miles. The KDSS version will decrease road body roll and improve off-road capabilities, as well, but they are hard to find. Not so great features include: limited 3rd row seating space and comfort, high (but rare) repair costs, fuel efficiency, styling (face it, it's ugly front most angles), and rear door.
5 out of 5 stars
Best of all luxury SUV
Sam, 04/12/2009
2008 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD (4.7L 8cyl 5A)
Of all the vehicles I have owned, this must be the best one suited for the whole family. Used to drive an Infiniti Q45 that was an excellent vehicle but not enough room, my wife drives a Honda Pilot, which I dread to drive because of intolerable road noise. The GX470 is the end result of my hours of research and test drives. It is like driving in the quiet comfort and luxury of my … previous Q45, with the roominess of the Honda Pilot.
4.13 out of 5 stars
Great SUV,But...
carenthusiast7, 04/05/2011
2008 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD (4.7L 8cyl 5A)
For an SUV it's very good with plenty of space unless you have a family or carrying more than 5 people, then some issues arise. The third row isn't exactly spacious and kids will fight for the mid row to avoid the third. Gas mileage is self explinatory since it runs on a V8. Power is plenty when you need it on highways and even after years, the GX is still fairly quiet even with a V8. … All in all, it is a great SUV, just be prepared for gas trips and the questionable third row.
4.75 out of 5 stars
Love my Lexus
Linda, 07/23/2009
2008 Lexus GX 470 4dr SUV 4WD (4.7L 8cyl 5A)
I purchased a used 2008 Lexus GX470 2 weeks ago with just 7500 miles. I love this car! I previously drove an Acura MDX and this vehicle is so much more comfortable. The ride is smooth and there is no road noise at all. My only issue: my Blue tooth. I can hear perfectly but no one seems to hear me! Hopefully, this can be fixed. If you enjoy an SUV but yearn for the smooth ride of a luxury … sedan, consider this model!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Lexus GX 470, so we've included reviews for other years of the GX 470 since its last redesign.
2009 GX 470 Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $47,615 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 15 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $397/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 49.7 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | four wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the GX 470 include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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